ANSeeN

ANSeeN Inc., a spin-off from Shizuoka University, was established in 2011 in Hamamatsu, Japan, with the mission of "Making Invisible Visible." The company operates in the electronic equipment and instruments sector, focusing on the development and manufacturing of advanced radiation sensing devices. This includes next-generation X-ray imaging sensors, panel detectors, and cameras designed for non-destructive inspection.

The core of ANSeeN's business is its proprietary X-ray imaging technology. The company is working to mass-produce large-size X-ray flat panel detectors (FPD) that feature photon-counting capabilities. This direct conversion technology uses a PIN diode CdTe structure, which allows for a count rate up to 100 times higher than conventional devices. The primary benefit is the ability to produce high-resolution, color X-ray images with increased sensitivity and lower radiation doses. This enables more precise and rapid inspections, a critical need in industries such as manufacturing, medical, and security.

ANSeeN serves clients that require detailed inspection of components to prevent defects, particularly in electronics manufacturing for applications like autonomous driving systems. The technology also has applications in the medical field for better soft tissue discrimination and in security for material decomposition to detect explosives. The company generates revenue through the sale of its radiation sensing devices, including panel detectors, X-ray line sensors, and image sensors.

The company has secured significant financial backing to support its research and development efforts. As of early 2024, ANSeeN had raised a total of $15.1 million through multiple funding rounds, including a Series C round that brought in $3.47 million. Key investors include CYBERDYNE Inc., RealTech Fund, Shizuoka Capital, and CEJ Capital, among others. In a strategic move to accelerate development, ANSeeN has appointed experienced technical advisers, including a former CTO of GE Healthcare and a senior engineer from Hitachi Power Solutions. Keywords: X-ray imaging sensors, non-destructive inspection, photon-counting detectors, direct conversion technology, radiation sensing devices, electronic components inspection, medical imaging technology, security screening, flat panel detectors, Shizuoka University spin-off, high-resolution imaging, industrial inspection, advanced materials, semiconductor inspection, manufacturing quality control, CdTe sensors, color X-ray imaging, low-dose radiation, defect detection, automated inspection